Using my network

This has always been a bit daunting for me. I think it's because of my curious nature coupled with my introverted nature and don't forget my occasional shyness. I don't whip out business cards at parties, I don't schedule informational interviews, and I generally don't even ask for help, unless I am desperate...and even then, I'll only ask certain individuals.

As I transition into my writing career, I am beginning to see how much I am missing when I am not activating my network (how corporate sounding!). Now, I'm sure there are polite, socially acceptable ways to do this...but I admit that I don't know any. While I am comfortable with my curiosity (because it's rarely seen as aggressive or annoying), when it comes to asking about people's work, the field they're in, and other work/career related things, I tend to go to the internet first. That way I can ask stupid questions of complete strangers...and log out if I am embarrassed or don't understand or whatever else.
Just this past week I found out about or talked to five different people who are involved with careers that may run parallel to my career goals. Most, when asked, were willing (and even excited) to offer any advice, support, answers, etc. I didn't feel anxious or nervous, I just asked questions and listened to any advice or guidance they offered. A few offered a longer time to chat, if I wanted. It's strange how that happens. It was really life-affirming to sit with others who had been there (where I haven't been yet) and talk about their life, how it's been affected and by what, and any other interesting pieces.

I was all excited to be published but when Josh told me that lots of places pay $150-$200 per article, I realized that I am still playing little league when I'm actually interested in the big leagues (but don't judge me on my bad, and poorly chosen, metaphors). I know that I can write...but the paralyzation can be unbearable. I even have places I want to submit to and topics I want to write about...but alas, sitting down and just doing it is hard enough.

I think I just need to take some time, not pressure myself, and just freewrite as I feel moved. Letting myself feel inspired is really important..I can't just sit down and produce a masterpiece in one sitting. The point is to write how I feel and use the truth as motivation. Beginning is the hardest part, but it's definitely possible.

New updates

First of all, I'm officially published!
Go to this link http://www.associatedcontent.com/user/9127/becca_campbell.html to keep track of all the articles I publish. Or use this link http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/27885/traveling_like_a_local_in_europe_and.html to go right to the article itself.
Another article will soon be published as well.

I'm writing up a storm. I have at least 100 reviews of places/businesses in Seattle at judysbook.com and 40 or so at yelp.com (look for the picture of me in a cowboy hat!). I make a little money, which feels good...and I am talking to people about getting into the writing world so that I can make a proper living. Very exciting.

I feel like I can't write enough, which is good and bad. I write more than I ever have, for different reasons, on different topics with different styles. It's really cool. Plus I am getting lots of positive feedback and financial validation which is even cooler.

Josh and I are both in the studio in Fremont now...we need to move in more permanently but we have all the heavy furniture in there. I will be starting my wedding dress very soon!

Okay, I need sleep tonight as I have work tomorrow...

9 days already?

Well, I feel like a lot has happened in the past 9 days and I know I should be updating more frequently so I don't dump a huge post...but alas, only now have I been able to write...or blog, really. I've been writing almost non-stop it seems.

So my great news is that I started writing for a website...Associated Content...and my first piece got published! Very exciting. I am eager to write more. I need a bit of discipline though so I can write more often. There are lots of sites that I want to write for...I've started writing down topics when I think of them..it makes for a more interesting time waiting for the bus.

I'm heading out to the studio today...the week has felt a bit long and I need some quiet, down time.

Too long

No, not the post, silly. The time since I have written.

Well, today I moved into my studio in Fremont. I share it with two other women and it's really nice. It's got bright green walls (which I will alter a tiny bit, of course) and northern light, but because the weather is getting better, I am not worried. It's bigger than the space I have in our tiny apt.!

Recently though, some things have come to light.

I was having a moment with Josh and long story short, he helped me re-connect to my writing. I have left it a bit in the dust for several months...of course I still write, but I don't see it as this amazing thing. I see it as a necessity...and not seeing it as this amazing thing, which it is, has made me take it for granted. I am all about living the truth of myself and yet I have been neglecting one of my main pillars. Josh recommended that I look for work that connects me to writing more. What a brilliant idea! Thank God for that guy!
So I have been looking...
I think having the studio to sew and do other creative things will actually help the writing more. I think I tend to try to be one-track-minded when really, I am multi-tracked. And taking some of the pressure off having to start a business or create a massive inventory or many of the other possible energy zappers makes it more enjoyable again. I can also use the studio to write, when I need another place other than our apt. And we can have our apt. back. I may even be able to get stuff out of storage!
So I'm excited to have some real space to paint, sew, drill, etc. It also means I can get out of my house more...which I need.
So if any of you know of any writing-type jobs (they can be PT of course), then please let me know. My specialty is creative non-fiction.
Okay, I just wanted to update.